Mucosal Melanoma Pamphlet
MUCOSAL MELANOMA
Know the Signs, Know the Support
Common Sites and Symptoms of Mucosal Melanoma
Head/Neck Region
Nose: Nose bleeds, breathing difficulty, pain inside the nose Mouth: Masses inside the mouth, lips, cheeks, mouth ulcers and difficulty or pain when swallowing or speaking Cervical/Vagina/Vulva Vaginal bleeding, discharge, pain or itching in the area. Do not ignore any new “moles,” spots or discolored patches or bumps on the vulva.
Gastrointestinal tract
Abdominal pain
Anus
Pain or bleeding from the anus, a protruding mass, diarrhea or constipation
Physical check-up: Everyone should have a yearly exam.
Dental check-up: Everyone should have an exam every 6 months.
Colonoscopy: Everyone should schedule an exam starting at age 45 and then every 10 years or as often as recommended by your doctor.
Papanicolaou (Pap) test: Women should start Pap tests at age 21 and repeat every 3 years. Pap tests screen for cervical cancer but not vulvar or vaginal cancers, so regular gynecologic exams are also important.
Newly diagnosed? You are not alone. Mucosal melanoma can be difficult to detect and is often missed or misdiagnosed, which can delay treatment. If symptoms persist, don’t accept a general diagnosis (e.g., hemorrhoids, nasal polyps, sinus infection, IBS, mouth ulcers) without further evaluation. Seek a specialist’s opinion, as a biopsy may be needed to confirm the cause. Helpful Tips for Your Next Appointment ✓ Write down new or changing symptoms. ✓ Bring a friend or loved one. ✓ Ask about genomic testing or clinical trial eligibility. ✓ Don’t hesitate to ask your care team to slow down or explain things again.
Here’s Where to Start: Website
Clinical Trial Finder
Visit melanoma.org to learn more about mucosal melanoma.
Explore the MRF’s Clinical Trial Finder.
Patient Forum
Ask a Nurse
Reach out to Ask a Nurse with questions about side effects, scans or survivorship.
Connect with other patients in our online patient forum.
Melanoma Research Foundation 1420 K Street NW, 7th Floor Washington, DC 20005 202.742.5864 or 800.MRF.1290 Find us online: melanoma.org
facebook.com/Melanoma.Research.Foundation
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youtube.com/CureMelanoma
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